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What are delivery package scams?

October 22, 2024

What is a delivery scam?
A delivery scam happens when scammers pretend to be delivery companies, sending texts or emails asking you to confirm delivery options or reschedule a delivery. Their goal is to trick you into clicking a fake link that can steal your personal and payment information. These scammers often say it’s urgent so you’ll act fast without thinking. Clicking the link can also put harmful software on your device to steal your info.

What do these texts and emails look like?
Delivery scam messages can look different each time. Some might just ask you to confirm a delivery, call them back, or confirm a payment. In other cases, they may even leave a fake delivery notice on your door or in your mailbox, asking you to call and set up a new delivery date.

How can I protect myself?
Here are some simple ways to spot and avoid these scams:

  1. Ask Yourself –“Am I expecting a delivery/package today?”
  2. Urgent Warnings – If the message says it’s urgent, it might be a scam, as they want you to act quickly.
  3. Check the Tracking Number – Look up any tracking number on the real delivery company’s website to make sure it’s real.
  4. Spelling Errors – Scammers often misspell the company’s name or make grammar mistakes.
  5. Personal Info Requests – Most delivery companies don’t ask for personal or payment information through text, email, or a paper notice.
  6. Call the Company – When you’re not sure, call the actual delivery company to check if they really tried to contact you.

What if I’ve been scammed?
If you think you’ve been tricked by a delivery scam, follow these steps right away:

  1. Report the scam to the FTC. https://www.identitytheft.gov/
  2. Change any passwords you shared.
  3. If you gave any financial details, contact TVFCU for help. https://www.tvfcu.com/about-us/contact-us.html

Related links:

FBI internet crime complaint center: https://www.ic3.gov/

FTC: https://www.identitytheft.gov/

TVFCU: give us a call at 423-634-3600 or for more options visit https://www.tvfcu.com/about-us/contact-us.html

TVFCU fraud education: https://www.tvfcu.com/benefits-education/fraud-education/phishing-vishing-smishing-scams.html